Diriyah Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Helicopter Company (THC), the Kingdom’s premier commercial helicopter operator, to explore potential opportunities and the integration of advanced air mobility solutions for the Diriyah project. This strategic collaboration supports Diriyah’s vision to become the world’s premier cultural and tourism destination, targeting 50 million annual visitors by 2030. The MoU was signed by  Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, and Capt. Arnaud Martinez, CEO of THC. The MoU aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, supporting national efforts to diversify the economy and enhance key sectors including tourism, mobility and infrastructure through the adoption of advanced technologies and sustainable development practices. The MoU covers a wide scope of collaboration, including strategic planning and integration, to explore the potential of incorporating Urban Air Mobility (UAM) services within Diriyah’s urban framework. It also emphasizes regulatory alignment and leveraging THC’s expertise in guiding Diriyah Company as its partner in the establishment of operational, technical, and infrastructural foundations to ensure efficient and compliant implementation of air mobility solutions within the birthplace of the Kingdom. The MoU highlights the importance of engagement with the air mobility ecosystem, including air transport operators, technology providers, and infrastructure developers, with an emphasis on environmental and social sustainability. To initiate this collaboration, Diriyah Company and THC will form a joint working group to assess opportunities and evaluate the potential impact of introducing innovative urban air transport services within the Diriyah project. If implemented, these services are expected to play a transformative role in the Kingdom’s urban air mobility and tourism sectors, further elevating Diriyah’s position as a premier global destination in support of Saudi Vision 2030. Commenting on …

The German Federal Foreign Office has renewed its contract with VFS Global in the Middle East for an additional seven years. Under this mandate, VFS Global will continue to provide Germany visa services through its centres in Algiers, Algeria; Manama, Bahrain; Erbil, Iraq; Amman, Jordan; Doha, Qatar; Kuwait City, Kuwait; Beirut, Lebanon; Muscat, Oman; and Abu Dhabi and Dubai, UAE, with additional operations in Nicosia, Cyprus; Yaounde, Cameroon; and Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria in the coming months. Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Business Development, VFS Global said, ‘Our longstanding association with the German Federal Foreign Office is a testament to their faith in our service, and we are excited to continue this journey in the Middle East. With the growing demand for international travel from the region, and Germany’s popularity as a destination for travellers across segments, we look forward to welcoming even more applicants at our centres in the coming years.’ VFS Global has been providing visa services on behalf of the German Federal Foreign Office since June 2005, through a global network of 68 Visa Application Centres across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. The new mandate will bring VFS Global’s Germany Visa Application Centre network to 72 locations worldwide. #ApplyinAdvance: It is recommended to apply for visas as early as booking flights and stay. Particularly this year with higher demand and limited appointment slots available, we urge applicants to apply for their visa as early as possible. You can apply for a Schengen visa up to 6 months before your date of travel. #DoNotFallForFraud: Visa applicants are advised to beware of fraudulent entities who charge fees from customers for scheduling appointments or …

Opening this September, Mileo The Palm, Hotel and Residences marks the arrival of a new kind of luxury in Dubai’s iconic Palm West Beach. Home to 176 rooms and suites, Mileo The Palm, Hotel and Residences offers a variety of living experiences for both short and extended stays—ranging from Deluxe Studios (43– 49 SQ.M) to Two-Bedroom Apartment Suites (113–118 SQ.M). Many feature private balconies with panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai Marina skyline. Following the success of its flagship property in Mykonos, Mileo brings its signature serenity and sophistication that feels both deeply personal and effortlessly refined. More than a place to stay, Mileo is a sanctuary of refined living with elegant design, curated hospitality, and quiet rituals of care come together to create an enticing luxury experience. Every feature has been crafted to feel both personal and elevated. Interiors soothe. Service anticipates. The atmosphere is one of calm intention. “Mileo The Palm is not simply a place to stay; it’s a story waiting to unfold, one where every moment is considered, every space is intentional, and every guest feels like they belong. From the textures in the room to the warmth of our service, we’ve created a world that lingers in memory long after the stay,” said Hossam Nabil, General Manager of Mileo The Palm, Hotel & Residences Dubai. “Our vision was never just about luxury, it was about creating a rhythm of experience, where thoughtful design and genuine hospitality come together to offer something quietly unforgettable,” Hossam added. Residential-style suites evoke the warmth of home, complete with fully equipped kitchens, ideal for extended stays. From thoughtful welcome rituals to Amouage bath amenities and Dyson hairdryers, every element reflects Mileo’s …

GCC, where medium-sized companies (6 to 50 employees) dominate, representing 51%  demonstrate a long term commitment to the industry. Their purpose-driven mindset, fueled by a passion for travel and human connection, continues to shape the sector and helps specialists navigate the increasing complexity of the post-pandemic environment. The survey shows that 93% of the participants work in small and medium businesses of up to 50 people. These are the findings of RateHawk’s latest report, ‘What Supercharges Travel Professionals’, which explores travel professionals’ perspectives on the ever-evolving travel industry. Of these, 50% of all travel professionals globally work in businesses of 2 to 5 people, with the highest concentration in Europe (58%) and Latin America (47%). Around 17% operate as independent agents, with North America reporting the largest share (22%). In contrast, solo professionals are far less common in Asia and the GCC, where medium-sized companies (6 to 50 employees) dominate, representing 44% and 51% respectively. Globally, medium-sized companies account for 26% of respondents. Only 7% of respondents work in companies with more than 50 employees. Travel professionals show strong loyalty to the industry, with 42% of respondents having more than 15 years of experience. This trend is especially prominent in Europe (51% on average), particularly in Italy (68%), Germany (64%) and Spain (52%). At the same time, the industry continues to attract newcomers, with 18% of respondents worldwide having joined over the last 3 years. In some regions, this share is noticeably higher — for example, 23% in North America and 25% in Latin America. Meanwhile, one in four respondents worldwide (25%) has worked in the industry for 4 to 10 years, while 15% have 11 to 15 years of …

Oman Air has launched its new digital platform, Oman Air Holidays, in collaboration with TUI. Oman Air Holidays enables guests from Oman to explore over 20 countries while also allowing international travellers to experience Oman as a distinctive and accessible destination. The announcement was made during a press conference in Muscat, marking a significant step in the airline’s initiative to improve the travel experience and boost inbound tourism to Oman, reported Times of Oman. The platform aligns with the airline’s broader strategy to enhance inbound tourism, which includes a stopover program with Visit Oman, efforts to increase direct traffic, and an expanding network, with Amsterdam and Rome being the latest additions. Additionally, in June, Oman Air joined the oneworld Alliance, providing access to a vast global network covering over 170 countries and territories through partner airlines. Michael Rutter, Chief Commercial Officer at Oman Air, said, “This platform is a natural extension of the work we’ve been doing to drive tourism into Oman, bringing together the elements we’ve been building: greater accessibility, stronger partnerships, and more compelling reasons to visit. It also marks an important step in our digital journey, as we continue to invest in more connected, guest-centric experiences. With TUI’s global reach and Oman Air’s renowned hospitality and service, we’re setting a new standard for holiday planning—whether in Oman or beyond.” David Schelp, CEO of TUI Markets + Airline, added, “Partnering with Oman Air allows us to bring our holiday expertise to a new market with huge potential. Oman is a remarkable destination, and this platform makes it more accessible to international travellers. We’re proud to support Oman Air in expanding their offerings while delivering the high-quality experiences TUI …

According to a recent report by Tourism Economics on behalf of Arabian Travel Market (ATM), 60% of travellers in the UAE trust Artificial Intelligence (AI) to plan every aspect of their trips, compared to 48% of travellers in other countries, with this figure predicted to rise as technology becomes more embedded into consumer habits. According to the report, AI is becoming a key tool for travellers planning trips to the Middle East. Nearly six in ten have used AI for travel planning, with 21% using it before their most recent trip. As AI adoption grows, it is expected to play an increasing role in delivering personalised recommendations and booking experiences for tech-savvy travellers. The research also confirmed that travel firms are harnessing AI to enhance customer service and drive economic impact. Travel technology is transforming the industry globally, changing the way travellers plan, book, and experience their journeys. In line with the digital transformation within travel and tourism, ATM 2025 provided a platform for experts across the technology, hospitality and events industries to discuss the implications for human connection as AI-powered tools, personalised service platforms, and data-led design become more prevalent. Speaking during the event, Amy Read, VP Innovation at Sabre Hospitality, said: “It is important to recognise that human connection is at the core of hospitality. When we think about innovation within hospitality, we try to find ways that amplify those key moments, rather than replace them. We want to free up staff time so that they can engage in more meaningful interactions.” Read acknowledged that it is vital for the industry to recognise that technology has changed guests’ expectations of hospitality providers as they now seek instant gratification and swift …

Sri Lanka’s largest investment and South Asia’s first integrated resort opened its doors, heralding a bold new chapter in the nations’ economic journey. Positioned at the crossroads of modern luxury and local artistry, City of Dreams Sri Lanka (COD SL), is a living showcase of Sri Lankan ambition, creativity and global vision. The transformative destination set to redefine the skyline, economy and future of Sri Lanka is the proud product of John Keells Holdings and Melco Resorts & Entertainment (Melco). It is where innovation, opportunity and national pride, converge to shape a modern and globally admired Sri Lanka. “This is a defining moment for Sri Lanka,” said Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the John Keells Group. “City of Dreams is the largest private investment in our country’s history—an ambitious national vision brought to life. More than a development, it is a world-class destination designed to catalyse economic growth, elevate our global profile, and help shape a modern, forward-looking Sri Lanka that inspires generations to come.” Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment stated, “We are honored to partner with John Keells Group on this visionary project. City of Dreams Sri Lanka reflects a remarkable collaboration, combining Melco’s expertise with the warmth and culture of Sri Lanka. “Through our role in operating NÜWA and the entertainment and gaming offerings, we are proud to contribute to a destination that celebrates Sri Lanka’s unique identity while setting new standards for luxury and hospitality in South Asia.” Behind COD SL’s gleaming façade lies a story of collaboration and craftsmanship. Over the last year, more than 500 local artisans, hospitality professionals, and creatives, partnered with international designers and Melco’s global experts to bring this …

TOURISE, the bold new global tourism platform, announced the members of its cross-sector Advisory Board, a powerhouse of industry titans guiding TOURISE’s strategic direction and shaping the agenda of the inaugural global summit taking place in Riyadh from 11-13 November, 2025. TOURISE is where cross-sector convergence begins, a platform where leaders and visionaries debate, collaborate and take action to shape the future of tourism. The 14-member board brings together expertise from tourism, technology, aviation, entertainment, education, sustainability and media, making it one of the most intentionally cross-sector bodies in global tourism today. Together, they will champion TOURISE’s vision, ensure high-impact global issues such as equity, geographical representation and sectoral diversity are in spotlight and influence the long-term value of the platform. Chaired by His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb, Minister of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, the Advisory Board represents an alliance of cross-industry leaders, assembled to elevate tourism on the global stage and shape a bold new vision for the sector’s future. “TOURISE is driving cross-sector global collaboration, and the formation of the Advisory Board ensures we are uniting diverse perspectives from representatives across the global tourism ecosystem,” His Excellency Ahmed Al-Khateeb said “Their visionary thinking and deep expertise will be essential in transforming TOURISE from ambition into action, ensuring the platform becomes a catalyst of innovation, investment, and sustainability in tourism for decades to come.” The TOURISE Advisory Board members are: • Julia Simpson, President & CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council. • Randy Durband, CEO, Global Sustainable Tourism Council. • Luis Maroto, CEO, Amadeus. • Blake Chandlee, former President of Global Business Solutions, TikTok. • Neil Jacobs, Founder of Wild Origins and former CEO of Six Senses. • Stephane Lefebvre, President, Cirque …

Starting 7th August, flights to Tbilisi International Airport will also increase to eight weekly flights, with double daily service on Thursdays, further enhancing seamless connectivity between Abu Dhabi and the Georgian capital. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi has increased the number of flights to Baku in Azerbaijan and Tbilisi in Georgia, offering more travel options for customers and supporting the growing demand for affordable and direct travel between the UAE’s capital and these popular leisure destinations. The airline now operates non-stop flights between Zayed International Airport and Baku’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport with a frequency of six weekly flights. The new schedule now includes flights every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, providing more flexibility for travelers exploring the vibrant city. “The increased frequencies to both Baku and Tbilisi reflect our ongoing commitment to strengthening our regional network while delivering greater convenience, flexibility, and value to our customers,” said Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer. “These two vibrant cities remain popular among UAE residents and visitors alike. The enhanced schedules will not only reinforce travel and tourism ties but also offer a more seamless and accessible travel experience”. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi continues to expand its growing route network from the UAE capital. The airline recently launched new routes to Almaty in Kazakhstan and Yerevan in Armenia, further reinforcing its presence in high-demand leisure and cultural destinations across the region. The carrier currently operates a modern fleet of 12 Airbus A320 aircraft and plans to add two more aircraft before the end of the year to support its ambitious growth strategy and meet increasing passenger demand. Customers can now book their flights by visiting Air Arabia’s website, calling the contact center, …

According to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) Dubai welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2025 – a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Dubai’s evolving destination offering, driven by impactful public-private partnerships and amplified through a robust global marketing strategy, resulted in the city welcoming these visitors.  His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: “Dubai continues to set new records in international visitation, reinforcing the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to make the city a major global business and tourism destination. This milestone reflects Dubai’s steady growth as a focal point for trade, investment, talent and opportunity and its rise as the world’s most connected city. Dubai’s ability to create compelling experiences that meet the evolving needs of visitors has strengthened its status as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. From exceptional infrastructure to unique attractions, Dubai offers a model of excellence in the tourism and hospitality sectors grounded in innovation.” “As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, tourism will remain key to driving GDP growth and cross-sector value creation in the emirate’s economy. By continually anticipating the needs of travellers and exceeding their expectations, we are strengthening Dubai’s position as the world’s best city to visit, live, and work in. Partnerships, global campaigns, events, and a series of new openings showcased the city to both new and returning international visitors, while DET’s …